Twelve-step Spirituality in View of the Sacrament of Reconciliation in the Catholic Church
Twelve-step Spirituality in View of the Sacrament of Reconciliation in the Catholic Church

Summary/Abstract: This article ventures into the basic principles of the original Twelve-step program by studying its similarity with the dynamics of the Sacrament of Reconciliation in the Catholic Church. It begins with a short presentation of the theological foundation of confession, and continues with the history of AA’s Twelve-step recovery program while focusing on the latter’s spiritual dimension and that of similar groups. The ma- jor analysis is dedicated to demonstrating and discussing the parallels found in the twelve steps content and the Sacrament of Reconciliation; where the twelve steps have their effectiveness written within themselves, the Sacrament of Reconciliation also requires a progression from contrition, an examination of conscience, the con- fessing sins and satisfaction. In conclusion, the author presents pastoral suggestions meant to facilitate work with believers struggling with various addictions.

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